Neapolitan Mastiff

Characteristics

Size

Grooming Needs

Exercise Needs

Good With Dogs

Watchdog Ability

History

The history of the breed Neapolitan Mastiff began long ago, nearly 3000 years BC. The breed in its present form was developed in Naples, Italy. When the Romans conquered Greece, they gained access to the big dogs (a mix between local and Egyptian giant breeds started with the campaigns of Alexander the Great). Later, with the conquest of Britain, the breed was enriched with even larger mastiffs. From some of these species started the development of the Neapolitan Mastiff as a fighting dog and guard. For the first time this breed was registered in the AKC in 2001.

Physical characteristics

Muscles throughout the body are highly developed. The ears are medium sized and are left hanging naturally or docked at a young age. The fur is short, the coloring is black, leaden or gray. Small white spots on the chest or fingertips are allowed. Female representative's height is about 60 - 68 cm, whilemale's is about 65 - 75 cm. The weight is between 50 and 70 kg.

Character and behavior

The Neapolitan Mastiff is a good-natured, friendly and energetic dog with an impressive appearance. Puppies of this breed have an extremely high demand for games, they can play with your slippers, but is better to have their own toys. You should not allow your dog to gnaw plastic, cloth or wood toys, which can have sharp parts. If the dog plays around too much and becomes unmanageable, do not punish it, direct its attention to something more peaceful.

Neapolitan Mastiffs were family guards and bodyguards for centuries and their life is flowing in constant contact with people. They cannot tolerate loneliness, left alone for the first time, a Mastiff can break everything in the house.

Training and education

The education should start from the very beginning. It is important to socialize your dog with other dogs and people, to learn manners and good behavior. Wrongly socialized mastiffs grow prone to aggression.

It is useful to walk your dog around in parks, outdoor markets and places to learn to meet people and get used to new experiences, sounds and images.

Neapolitan Mastiffs are arbitrary animals. You should be strict, but do not forget that they need proper training, love and patience. Well-bred mastiffs are wonderful dogs - loyal and loving companions who would sacrifice their life to save their master’s.

Health problems

The average life expectancy is between 8 and 10 years. This breed has a few genetic conditions that you should know about. Some of them are: OCD, thyroid problems, heart problems, HD, sensitivity to certain drugs and medications. You must ensure that the parents of your puppy have OFA certificate.

Grooming and care

Before looking for puppies for sale, you should know that it is not a good idea to raise these dogs in an apartment as they need a lot of space. You must provide them with a spacious, safe and secure place where they can enjoy the fresh air.

It is important to brush on a weekly basis with a brush with stiff hairs or glove with a special coating that attracts hair. This helps getting rid of the dead hair. If there is dirt on the coat, you can just wipe it with a damp cloth.

Wash the dog's teeth at least two or three times a week. Nails should be cut once or twice a month, once you hear the dog track with nails on the floor, it is time for trimming. Hygiene practices should not be an unpleasant experience for your pet, so it should get used to them from an early age.

Children and other pets

These dogs love children and get along well with them, especially if they grew up together. Could live with other animals, but early socialization is crucial. When it comes to strangers, the Neapolitan Mastiff will be aggressive and cautious.

Interesting facts

According to some archaeological findings and ancient manuscripts, these dogs have existed at least 5000 years ago. In ancient Rome competitions with "big dogs" were often arranged. They fought to the last breath against lions, tigers, bulls and gladiators.